DANIEL McKenzie was so fatigued early in his AFL debut he questioned whether he would get through the game.

The step up in intensity and pace shocked the talented 18-year-old, who collected 13 disposals and laid four tackles against Essendon.

But as he has done throughout his junior career and in his time playing VFL, McKenzie found a way to adapt and was impressive in St Kilda’s one-point loss.

“When we ran out through the banner it was just crazy,” McKenzie told SAINTS.com.au post-game.

“The crowd’s roar was a bit surreal and the first quarter was really quick. I was buggered by the end of it and didn’t think I’d make it through.”

Become a member. Click HERE or call 1300 GO SAINTS.

Flanked by his brother, sister, grandmother and parents after the match in the rooms, MzKenzie was understandably tired but equally proud to have gotten through his first game in Saints colours unscathed.

His father Michael had to keep pinching himself while watching the game, having watched Daniel progress through the ranks before being selected with pick 22 at the 2014 National Draft.

“I’m very proud,” Michael said.

“He’s worked very hard and it has been the weight of expectation ever since he was a junior. Everyone was saying that he was going to play AFL. It really is quite amazing to see him out there on the field.”

Take advantage of our Mates Rates offer for round 8 and get 4 tickets for the price of 3*. Click Here to purchase now.